Franklin May, 75 , of Columbia City, died peacefully in the company of family at 11:45 p.m. on Monday, July 6, 2026, at his home.

Born on September 27, 1950, in Johnson County, Kentucky, he was the son of the late Homer and Myrtle (Hitchcock) May.  He grew up in Johnson County.

On October 30, 1970, he married Betsy I. Shepherd.  The couple made their home in Pierceton raising two children.  In 2018, the couple moved to Columbia City.

For 43 years, Frank worked at Dalton Foundry, Warsaw in various departments.

An auto enthusiast, Frank totally restored a 1962 Chevy Impala.  He was an avid NASCAR fan. Through the years he bred and raised beagles and hounds for hunting.

Surviving is his beloved wife of 56 years, Betsy, children, Matthew (Amy) May of Columbia City and Christy (Bob) Freeman of Woodburn; grandchildren, Olivia May and Jude Strack; and a sister, Brenda May of Columbia City.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Doris Jean May and a son-in-law, Micheal Phend

The funeral service is 12 noon Thursday (July 9th) at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City, with visitation from 10:30 a.m. until the funeral.  Burial is at Hillcrest Cemetery, Pierceton.